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Perth Wildcats fans can help fire recovery

Tom Jervis and I travelled to the bushfire-affected region and visited those at the Pinjarra Recreation Centre.

That experience had an overwhelming impact on both our lives.

We were heartened to give away some merchandise and conduct a clinic for the kids, but it was more the realisation of what these individuals were going through that stirred us.

Speaking to people there, they said some of the kids didn’t realise the seriousness of what was happening; they believed they were on a holiday.

To be able to provide some happiness to some people’s lives just for a few minutes is something I will cherish.

As part of efforts to assist the region, we are working with the Cairns Taipans to raise some money for the Lord Mayor’s Distress Relief Fund when we face them at Perth Arena next Monday.

With the Taipans boasting a number of WA players, including South-West products Mark Worthington and captain Cameron Gliddon, this was a perfect opportunity for opposing teams to work together to have an impact off the court.

All 10 jerseys we will wear in the game are currently up for auction; they will be signed after the contest and all proceeds will go to the fund.

The Perth Wildcats are inviting those affected by the fire to attend the game, which I think is incredible.

Lastly, I want to thank the firefighters for their tireless work in extremely tough conditions, an incredible effort that really puts what we do into perspective.